On a chilly Sunday, December 17th, at the Veterans Transition Center, more than 200 local military and veteran families experienced a holiday celebration like no other. The air buzzed with excitement, filled with the aroma of hot chocolate and the sound of holiday tunes, as families were greeted with open arms and warm smiles.
Heroes of the Holiday: A Celebration to Remember
Children dove into a world of sugar cookies and colorful icing, crafting masterpieces of sweetness, while their parents selected from a bounty of gifts collected during TDECU's toy drive. Volunteers, embodying the season's spirit, wrapped presents with care as Santa listened to the wishes of eager children, making the day even more magical.
A Gift of Support: TDECU's Generous Contribution
It was not just about the festivities; TDECU's commitment to giving went beyond the celebrations. A significant donation of $30,000 to Combined Arms underscored their dedication to supporting military families and veterans transitioning to civilian life. This generous contribution will aid Combined Arms in its mission throughout the year, providing essential resources and support to those who have served our country.
Mia Garcia, Executive Director of the Texas Veterans Network, emphasized the importance of this support. "There are veterans who struggle to support their families during the holidays," she remarked. This event and the donations it brings are crucial in letting these families know they are not alone and that a community is ready to support them.
A Community Effort: The Power of Teamwork
The success of Operation Santa 2023 was a testament to the power of community. With over 1,120 gifts collected for the children of veteran families, it was clear that every contribution mattered. A special nod goes to the Mortgage team, who not only collected 161 gifts but also raised $1,570 to support the cause. The Loan Resolutions team also shone brightly, offering their time and energy during the crucial Wrappy Hour, even assisting in loading gifts for transport.
The outreach extended beyond a single location, with TDECU Member Centers across Victoria, Brazoria, and Dallas-Fort Worth regions collecting hundreds of gifts for various veterans' organizations. This collective effort ensured that the joy of the holiday season reached veterans closest to home, significantly impacting the lives of those who have served.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
As we reflect on the success of Operation Santa 2023, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who played a part in making it happen. From the volunteers who wrapped gifts to the donors who offered what they could, every effort contributed to a brighter holiday for over 200 military families. TDECU and Combined Arms have again shown what can be achieved when we come together in the spirit of giving and support.
This year's event has set a high bar for the future, but it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to support our military and veteran families. As we look forward to next year, let us carry forward the spirit of generosity and community that made Operation Santa 2023 a resounding success. Thank you to all who contributed, and here's to continuing our support for those who have given so much for our country.
Read more about our 2022 and 2023 efforts in our Operation Santa Press Releases.